News Release

Thursday, September 26, 2002

Estranged Husband Kills Wife, Attacks In-Laws with Butcher Knife

"Estranged Husband Kills Wife, Attacks In-Laws with Butcher Knife "

Los Angeles: Rampart Area Homicide Detectives are investigating the murder of a 32 year-old female Los Angeles resident, who was killed by her husband during a violent attack that also left her mother and brother critically injured.

On September 25, 2002 at approximately 1:30 p.m., Los Angeles Rampart Area Police officers responded to an ADW radio call on the 1100 block of north Douglas Street in the Echo Park Area of Los Angeles. Arriving at the scene, officers discovered three related victims who were brutally attacked by another knife wielding member of the family.

The police investigation revealed that Seav Leang, and her estranged husband, 47 year-old To Lip Pai, were involved in an argument inside their residence that turned deadly, when Pai obtained a large knife and began attacking his wife. Leang’s mother and brother intervened, and attempted to stop the stabbing. Pai then turned his deadly intended rampage upon the two family members who were trying to save the woman from being killed.

After the savage attack upon the three victims, Pai left the residence and drove to the 1100 block of Sunvue Place where he attempted suicide. Rampart Area officers responded to the location and took Pai into custody without incident. The weapon used by Pai was recovered at the scene.

The three victims and suspect Pai were transported to USC Medical Center where Seav Leang was admitted into surgery and pronounced dead. The two family members were listed in critical, but stable condition. Pai was treated for his self-inflicted wound and was booked for 187 PC Murder.

Rampart Homicide Detectives Faustino and Noone are seeking assistance from the public by asking anyone with information regarding this incident to call them during business hours at 213 207-2051. During off-hours and on weekends call the 24-hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk, 1-877-LAWFULL, 1-877-529-3855.